In New South Wales (NSW), all Food Handlers are required to complete approved food safety training. The Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS) delivers nationally recognised Food Handler training that meets NSW requirements - completed online in three to four hours and resulting in an official Statement of Attainment.
| Who is the AIFS Food Handler Course for? | Anyone handling unpackaged food in an NSW food business |
| Format | Online, self-paced |
|
Course length |
3-4 hours (12 months access) |
| Outcome | Statement of Attainment |
|
Unit of competency codes |
SITXFSA005 (Hospitality) / HLTFSE001 (Health and Community) |
Under Standard 3.2.2A of the Food Standards Code, food businesses across Australia (including NSW) must ensure all Food Handlers are trained in food safety. This applies to anyone who handles unpackaged food as part of their job.
That covers roles in the following sectors:
NSW also has additional requirements set by the NSW Food Authority. Food businesses must have at least one designated Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) on staff who is reasonably contactable at all times during food preparation and service. The Food Safety Supervisor holds a separate, more advanced certification - distinct from the general Food Handler course.
The AIFS Food Handler course takes you through the essential knowledge required to work safely with food. Topics include:
The AIFS online Food Handler course is designed to be straightforward. Here is what to expect:
Most learners finish in three to four hours. There is no exam or fixed schedule to work around.
This is one of the most common questions from NSW food businesses.
Food Handler training is required for anyone who handles unpackaged food as part of their role. It covers food safety fundamentals and results in a Statement of Attainment. Most food service employees will need this.
Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) certification is a separate, more advanced requirement. Almost every food business in NSW must have at least one certified FSS on staff at all times. FSS certification is valid for five years - and businesses have 30 working days to arrange renewal before it expires.
If you are unsure which training applies to your situation, AIFS can help you choose the right course.
AIFS is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) approved to deliver nationally recognised food safety training on behalf of the NSW Food Authority. Start your AIFS Food Handler course today and get the certification you need to work with food in NSW.
Q. What certificate is needed to handle food in NSW?
A. Food Handlers in NSW must complete an approved food safety training course. With AIFS, this results in a Statement of Attainment - a nationally recognised document meeting NSW Food Handler requirements under Standard 3.2.2A.
Q. Is Food Handler training mandatory in NSW?
A.Yes. Standard 3.2.2A requires all Food Handlers to be trained in food safety. NSW also imposes additional requirements through the NSW Food Authority, including the Food Safety Supervisor mandate.
Q. How long does the Food Handler course in NSW take?
A. Most learners complete the AIFS course in three to four hours. However, you have 12 months of access from the date of enrolment to work at your own pace.
Q. Do I need a Food Safety Supervisor if my staff have Food Handler training?
A. Yes. These are separate requirements. Every NSW food business must have at least one certified Food Safety Supervisor on staff, regardless of how many Food Handlers have completed the Food Handler course.
Q. How long is a Food Safety Supervisor certificate valid in NSW?
A. NSW Food Safety Supervisor certification is valid for five years. Businesses have 30 working days to arrange renewal before expiry.